Client: Ministry of Public Works and Urban Planning
Location: Nouakchott, Mauritania
Services Provided: Concept Design
Total Built-up Area: 54,000 m²
Construction Cost: $88,760,000
Starting Date: November 2012
Completion Date: November 2012
Challenge:
The Nouakchott Grand Mosque was envisioned as a landmark of faith and cultural identity within the heart of Mauritania’s capital. The challenge was to create a mosque that responds to the region’s arid desert climate while serving as a unifying space for religious, social, and educational activities. Additionally, the design had to integrate elements from both Mauritanian and Moroccan coastal architecture, reflecting a fusion of traditions while remaining contextually relevant.
Approach:
Awarded second prize in an international competition, the design sought to establish a seamless connection between spiritual, cultural, and urban spaces. The architecture blended the intricate detailing of Moroccan coastal architecture with the simplicity and resilience of Mauritanian design, creating a monumental yet welcoming presence. The mosque's spatial arrangement prioritized natural cooling strategies, using shaded courtyards, arcades, and carefully placed openings to maximize air circulation and thermal comfort.
The design included a grand men’s prayer hall, a separate prayer space for women, and dedicated residences for the Mo’athen and Imam, ensuring a fully integrated religious complex. The mosque’s geometric precision and materiality reinforced a strong visual identity, grounding it firmly within the historical and architectural lineage of the region.
Impact:
The Nouakchott Grand Mosque stands as a symbolic and functional landmark, bringing together religious devotion, cultural heritage, and modern urban needs. By harmonizing regional architectural influences with climate-responsive strategies, the design creates a sustainable and enduring place of worship. The project not only reinforces Mauritania’s architectural and spiritual legacy but also demonstrates how traditional elements can be innovatively reinterpreted to serve contemporary communities.
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